Metro Vancouver Fireplace Registration: What You Must Know
New Rules for Cozy Homes
Imagine cozying up by the fire on a chilly evening—now, picture needing a license to do so. In Metro Vancouver, this isn’t just a thought experiment. As of now, if you own or use a wood-burning fireplace, stove, or similar device, you’re required to register it and follow strict clean-burning practices. Why? Because clean air isn’t just a luxury—it’s a necessity.
Why the Change?
Back in 2020, the Metro Vancouver Regional District Board introduced Bylaw 1303, officially called the “Residential Indoor Wood Burning Emission Regulation Bylaw.” The goal? To slash emissions from wood smoke and protect both public health and the environment. Smoke from burning wood is a major source of fine particulate matter, which can worsen lung and heart diseases, increase cancer risks, and even reduce life expectancy.
What’s Covered?
Not just fireplaces—wood stoves, pellet stoves, fireplace inserts, masonry heaters, and any other wood-burning devices in your home are included. If you use any of these, you must comply with the bylaw’s requirements.
Key Requirements: What You Need to Do
Follow Best Burning Practices: Operate your device according to manufacturer guidelines and minimize smoke.
Seasonal Ban: From May 15 to September 15, wood burning is prohibited—unless your device is your only source of heat or you live in an off-grid, rural home.
Declaration and Registration: You must submit a declaration that you’re following best practices. If you live within the Urban Containment Boundary, you also need to register your device online or by paper form—no fee required.
Renewal: Every three years, renew your declaration and registration in urban areas.
Operational Restrictions: As of September 2025, only registered devices can be used in urban areas, except for low-income households or during emergencies.
How to Register and Avoid Fines
Registering is straightforward. Visit the Metro Vancouver website, provide your contact info, appliance address, and details about your device. If you’re unsure if your device qualifies, check the bylaw or contact your retailer.
Failure to comply can result in fines ranging from $100 to $500. However, if you’re open to education and warnings, you can avoid penalties. Continued non-compliance, though, will lead to steeper consequences.
Transitioning to Cleaner Heating
To help homeowners switch to cleaner options, Metro Vancouver offers rebates for replacing old, uncertified wood-burning devices with new, low-emission models. There’s a limited number of rebates available, so act fast if you’re interested.
Bottom Line
If you love your fireplace or wood stove, you’ll need to play by the new rules. Register your device, burn clean, and keep Metro Vancouver’s air healthy for everyone. After all, a warm home shouldn’t mean a polluted sky.
